Dogs love crunchy, flavorful snacks, and Apple Cinnamon Oat Bites are one of the easiest homemade treats you can prepare.
This recipe is filled with fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought biscuits. With just a handful of ingredients, you can bake a batch of treats that are safe, tasty, and tail-wagging good.
Why Apple Cinnamon Oat Bites Are Great for Dogs
- Apples: Provide fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
- Oats: Gentle on the stomach, packed with fiber.
- Cinnamon: Adds flavor and is safe in small amounts, helping freshen breath.
- No added sugar or preservatives: Only dog-friendly, natural ingredients.
Always remove apple seeds and core. Seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which can be harmful to dogs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For about 20–24 small bites:
- 1 medium apple (peeled, cored, and finely grated)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup oat flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 1 egg
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (ensure it’s Ceylon cinnamon, not cassia, for safety)
- 1–2 tablespoons water (if dough is dry)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Apple
Peel, core, and grate the apple. Make sure no seeds or core remain. This ensures the bites are safe.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the grated apple and egg. Stir until blended.
4. Add Oats, Flour, and Cinnamon
Add the rolled oats, flour, and cinnamon to the bowl. Stir until the mixture becomes dough-like. If it feels too dry, add a splash of water.
5. Shape the Bites
Scoop small spoonfuls of dough and roll them into bite-sized balls. Place them evenly on the baking tray.
6. Bake Until Golden
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bites are lightly golden and firm.
7. Cool and Serve
Let the bites cool completely before offering them to your dog. Store in an airtight jar.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples: Low in fat, high in vitamins, and naturally sweet.
- Oats: Great for digestion and full of healthy carbs.
- Eggs: Provide protein and amino acids for muscle support.
- Cinnamon: Safe in moderation, adds flavor and freshness.
Storage Tips
- Store at room temperature in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.
Variations to Try
- Banana Boost: Replace apple with mashed banana.
- Pumpkin Oat Bites: Swap apple for pumpkin puree.
- Crunchy Coating: Roll bites in crushed oats before baking for extra crunch.
Serving Size
These are treats, not full meals. For small dogs, one bite a day is enough. Medium and large dogs can enjoy two or three as an occasional snack.
Safety Reminder
- Only use plain, unsweetened oats. Avoid flavored or instant packets.
- Choose Ceylon cinnamon for safety, as it’s gentler than cassia cinnamon.
- Introduce slowly if your dog has never had oats or cinnamon before.
Why Dogs Love Apple Cinnamon Oat Bites
The combination of sweet apple and warm cinnamon makes these bites smell like cookies — irresistible for dogs and even appealing to humans. The chewy oats add texture, and the small bite size makes them perfect for training rewards.
Final Thoughts
Apple Cinnamon Oat Bites are easy, healthy, and quick to make. They combine the goodness of apples with the cozy flavor of cinnamon, baked into small, chewy bites your dog will love. With just 30 minutes of baking, you’ll have a wholesome treat ready for your best friend.
